, MLA GimliMay 23, 2013

Young Humanitarian Award Recipient Shania Sveinson

Mr. Speaker, in every community in Manitoba there are children and youth who go above and beyond to make the world a better place. Shania Sveinson is one of those outstanding youth.

Last night I was pleased to attend the Manitoba Teachers’ Society Young Humanitarian Awards Night where Shania was recognized for her outstanding contributions. This prestigious award recognizes students from across the province who have shown leadership, compassion, creativity and a desire to improve the lives of others. In presenting the award, my former colleague and Gimli High School Vice Principal Leona Groot was joined by Manitoba Teachers' Society President Paul Olson and Young Humanitarian Awards Committee Chair Arlyn Filewich, as well as my colleague the Minister of Education.

As a student leader at Gimli High School, Shania has demonstrated that volunteering in social justice initiatives can have an incredible impact in building a healthier and more vibrant community and province. In addition to being a member of numerous school clubs and a dedicated athlete, Shania has also volunteered with festivals and events in the Gimli area and has worked to protect the health of Lake Winnipeg. As a member of the Gimli Fair Trade Town Committee, Shania has worked with the community and the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation to develop Gimli as a fair-trade-certified town. She also helped organize and facilitate public awareness events, in partnership with the Interlake Women’s Resource Centre, for International Day of the Girl and the Silent Witness Project Memorial.

Shania’s involvement in her school and community also led her to win a Manitoba School Board Association Citizenship Award as well the Association of Manitoba Municipalities’ 2013 George Harbottle Memorial Young Community Leader Award earlier this year.

Young people are capable of accomplishing great things in this province, Mr. Speaker. The passion, determination and hope demonstrated by committed youth like Shania is an inspiration to all Manitobans.

Mr. Speaker, Shania Sveinson and her mother, Lisa Ewanyshyn, join us in the gallery today and I would like to ask all members of the Legislative Assembly to join me in thanking Shania for her commitment to a better world for everyone. You truly are an inspiration.